Murren: best resort for village charm

MURREN has all the ingredients that go to make a truly captivating mountain retreat. It is tiny (making nearby Wengen seem positively metropolitan) and almost entirely old and traditional in its architectural style; it is also traffic-free to a degree that very few rivals can claim. It is reached by funicular and mountain railway and enjoys some of the most spectacular views in the Alps.

PLUS POINTS: Blissfully peaceful village. Wonderful views. Glorious black run from the Schilthorn. Sunny setting. Smart sports centre.

MINUS POINTS: Small ski area. Claustrophobic - especially for apres-ski. No cross-country skiing. Queues for Schilthorn cable-cars at times.

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